The Swedru Senior High School (SWESCO) community has been thrown into shock following the sudden transfer of the school’s Headmistress, Golda Andam, a move alleged to have been influenced by a local Member of Parliament.
Miss Andam, an alumna of SWESCO, has been credited with leading a revival of the school in recent years, restoring discipline, improving academic performance, and strengthening engagement with the Alumni Association. Alumni sources describe her leadership as instrumental in renewing confidence in the institution and attracting support for infrastructure and academic improvement projects.
However, her firm approach to school management reportedly brought her into conflict with some political figures in the area. According to information available to the Alumni Association, the Member of Parliament accused Miss Andam of disrespecting her on multiple occasions. Tensions escalated after the MP allegedly requested the admission of 52 students during the most recent senior high school placement cycle.
“Academic records indicate only five of the students had aggregates below 30, while the remaining applicants scored between 35 and 48, well above the school’s typical admission threshold,” the Alumni Association said. Miss Andam reportedly admitted 42 of the 52 students after sustained pressure but declined the remaining 10 on academic grounds. Sources allege she was warned that she would “pay for it” if she refused to comply fully.
Shortly thereafter, the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service issued a transfer directive requiring Miss Andam to vacate her post by 12th March. The timing of the directive has heightened concerns among old students, as the school prepares for its Alumni Homecoming and Speech and Prize-Giving Day, scheduled for 20th and 21st March.
“Her sudden removal could disrupt preparations and the positive momentum the school has been building,” the Alumni Association said, highlighting her close involvement in planning the events.
Alumni sources further allege that the MP proposed that the Constituency Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, a former teacher at the school, be appointed as the substantive Head of SWESCO. “This prospect has sparked significant concern among old students, some of whom have questioned the suitability of the proposed replacement,” the statement added.
The Alumni Association described the development as “deeply troubling,” warning that it raises broader questions about political interference in the administration of educational institutions. Old students, both in Ghana and abroad, have begun consultations on possible steps to challenge what they describe as the politicisation of school leadership appointments.
The association emphasised that decisions affecting the leadership of the school “must be guided by professional standards and the long-term interests of students rather than partisan considerations.” They reaffirmed their determination to protect the progress made at SWESCO and ensure that school management remains focused on academic excellence and discipline.
Further details on the situation are expected as stakeholders continue consultations in the coming days.
About the Author
